A new report from the European Commission has shown that changes in the functioning of the cohesion policy for this budget period (2014 to 2020) have had a positive effect on the investment climate. One of the key changes was the introduction of prerequisites covering everything from compliance with energy efficiency requirements, through innovations and digital plans to educational reforms, with the aim of ensuring rational and efficient spending. This is one of the most important innovations in the EU cohesion policy, and currently, 86 percent of these conditions have been met in all member states. According to the Commission’s statement, many of these prerequisites addressed both horizontal and sectoral barriers to investment, thereby deepening the single market.
Member States Met Conditions
For example, in Malta, Portugal, and Slovenia, ‘SME tests’ have been introduced to monitor the impact of national legislation on small and medium-sized enterprises, while in Greece, the prerequisite related to digital growth has prompted the adoption of a revised digital development strategy. In Croatia, Bulgaria, and Romania, health infrastructure maps developed to meet the health-related prerequisite have resulted in greater cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and generally greater efficiency in the health sector.
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In the Czech Republic, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, and Spain, the energy efficiency prerequisite has significantly influenced the rapid adoption of directives on energy efficiency and energy efficiency in buildings, while in Hungary, it has prompted authorities to implement water pricing policies in the agriculture sector, giving farmers an incentive to use water resources more efficiently. Similarly, some prerequisites required that EU fund resources be linked to strategic investments, achieving alignment of public spending with defined priorities.
Better Quality of Life
Other prerequisites related to the efficiency of public administration, and their application, the report shows, has resulted in better coordination among ministries, agencies, regional bodies, local authorities, and other stakeholders. − This report shows that prerequisites have improved the framework within which the EU budget operates. By linking the acquisition of EU funds with the implementation of key structural changes, we have not only contributed to ensuring better public investments but also to a better quality of life in the EU by creating the right conditions for growth and job creation, in line with the objectives of President Juncker’s Investment Plan, said Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Crețu.
